So you have decided to take the plunge and want to learn how to make drums that are one-of-a-kind. Well it's no big secret actually. Making drums does take some detailed planning which will be covered here.

From experience I can say that it is loads of fun and a cool feeling to make drums that no one else will have. A custom drum set allows any drummer to have a kit that says "this is me". Let's break it down into simple steps.

Drum Building In Five Steps

1. Picture in your mind's eye in detail what you desire in a custom drum set, including sizes, finish, wood type, lug design, snare throw-off, snare butt, air holes and logo if any.

2. Order all the parts including heads by contacting drum builder supply companies.

3. Decide on the type of wood, or other material such as carbon fibre, fibreglass or acrylic for the drum shells. The snare shell can also include brass or even titanium as a shell material. Maple drums are a big favorite of many professionals. American or Honduran Mahogany is also a great warm sounding wood and of course birch drums are a very popular choice with studio drummers.

4. Communicate very clearly! To make drums that are truly custom both the drummer and the shell supplier must be on the same page. Making a custom snare first is highly recommended and if all goes smooth then the toms and bass drum should not be a problem. Always test the waters first when making drums for the first time.

5. Order your drum shells from a reputable drum building expert. This step is critical because they will be responsible for the following important details:

=> The exact size and depth of the shell.
=> Drilling the holes for the hardware.
=> Cutting the bearing edges. (discuss your options)
=> Applying plastic wrap, natural grain or lacquer finish.

Final Details - Communication

Remember to send one specific lug for the toms, bass drum, and snare along with the snare strainer and butt to assure a precise fit. Drilling a shell is a precision job with no room for error. With these lugs on hand the holes can be carefully checked while being drilled.

Be sure to talk on the phone with everyone involved in the process. Follow up with an email clearly listing your specifications. Call a couple days later to make sure they got the email. Leave nothing to chance. You'll be glad you learned how to make drums correctly the first time.

Below is a list of companies to get you started in finding just the right custom drum parts and drum shells for your kit. Have fun in your building adventure and enjoy your custom drum set!


Custom Drum Parts

http://www.precisiondrum.com

http://www.drummaker.com

http://www.amdrumparts.com

http://www.egodrumlugs.com